Egyptian Social Pyramid

Comparison Between Egyptian and Beduin Societies

In Egypt there were definite social classes which were dictated by an Egyptian's profession.

This social stratification was like a pyramid:

At the bottom of the classes were Slaves and Farmers, they represented the greatest percent of the Egyptian population.
The workers supported the professionals above them, just as the base of the pyramid supports the rest of the structure

Finally, at the top of the social status pyramid was the Pharaoh. He was not simply a ruler, but was considered a god on earth.

- Bedouins have no notion of social class
- The tribe is led by a Sheikh, an elder member of the tribe. This title is not hereditary
- Every individual in the tribe has a roughly equal social standing in most situations

Relation between classes

- Social classes at the top of the pyramid subordinated classes with less power at the bottom,
- The Pharaoh dictated every law, to his direct subordinates, who in turn transmitted them to the bottom of the pyramid.

- Disputes are settled, interests are pursued, and justice is maintained according to an ethic of self-help and collective responsibility
- Bedouins have strong honor codes, and justice revolves around these codes.